James Clayton "Sonny" Bailey

1946 - 2024

CALVERT CITY - "Sonny" James Clayton Bailey, beloved community figure and devoted outdoorsman, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Calvert City having been born in Paducah on Oct. 3, 1946. Sonny, as he was fondly known, led a life marked by dedication and service as the owner and operator of Bailey Port Inc. He was a hero and was recognized with the prestigious and rare Carnegie Medal of Honor.

Sonny was a man of many interests; he had a unique and bold personality that was larger than life. His confidence, imagination, and free spirit lit up every room he walked into. He had a great love for horses, reading, hunting, and camping in the mountains. His many extraordinary travels and brave adventures held a special place in his heart, allowing him to explore untold horizons and create lasting memories.

His unstoppable spirit, generous heart, and captivating stories will be profoundly missed by those who were fortunate enough to know him. To know him was to love him. He had a contagious smile and bright blue eyes. Sonny's legacy is a tapestry of the adventures he embraced and the lives he touched.

Mr. Bailey is survived by his daughters, Natalie Beyer and Ella Bailey, both of Paducah; his sons, James C. "Clay" Bailey (Chrystal) and Jacob Lance Bailey, all of Calvert City; his sister, Teena Seaborn of Sharpe; his grandchildren, Clayton Bailey, Bailey Beyer, and Lanie Beyer.

Mr. Bailey was preceded in death by his parents, Ewing Milton "E.M." Bailey and Evelyn Ovesen Bailey; his sister, Karen Drew; and his brother, Jackie Bailey Jr.

A memorial visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah.

Immediately following visitation service, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Kern Barn, 6070 Old Mayfield Hwy., Paducah, KY 42003.

Please come join us in sharing some of the legendary memories we were so blessed with by Sonny.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Cassidy's Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy, 6075 Clinton Rd. Paducah, KY 42003.

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at milnerandorr.com.